Kayaking can be done in many of the United States National Parks, including Everglades National Park, Glacier Bay National Park, Preserve, Acadia National Park, and Denali.
Starting on your kayak adventures
It’s a kayak adventure: meet at the water, where you will explore the shores and waterways of the area. Each area you might go kayaking has its attractions and sights you can expect.
Why do it?
You will get to experience the beauty and the majesty of kayaking in safe waters. You will see a variety of birds, mammals, and wildlife. No area does shore-side exploration of private places. The off-limits areas are posted at each location where you might like to go on a kayak adventure.
Kayak Explore – If you’re looking for a kayak adventure in your backyard, check out these top 4 favorite lakes.
1. Lake Lanier:
Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this lake offers over 100 miles of shoreline to explore. Whether you want a relaxing day on the water and more adventurous trip, there is something for everyone at Lake Lanier.
2. Humbug Mountain Lake:
Located in the Calaveras Big Trees State Park in California, this lake is the perfect place to go for a weekend getaway. There are so many things to do, including hiking and biking and camping in the park.
3. Lake Burton:
If you’re looking for solitude and calm water, look no further than this little-known lake located just south of Helen. There are few visitors, and it’s perfect for kayaking or canoeing through the quiet forest scenery.
4. Lake Berryessa:
Located on a reservoir about 30 miles north of San Francisco, this lake offers gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife. It’s not uncommon to see hundreds of California white pelicans fly by or a group of otters playing in the water on sunny days.
Time Length for a Kayaking Explore
Depending on where you are traveling. You should usually plan a trip for one day and if you stay close to home, or at least half a day if you go on a multi-day trip.
Kayaking Gear
It’s important to bring along all the gear and tools you need for a fun and safe voyage when kayaking. Make sure to include your life jacket and paddle because you never know what could happen on the water. Maybe a pesky bird will fly in front of your path, or the water level could drop suddenly and leave you stranded. You are also encouraged to bring along sunscreen, a dry bag, and binoculars so you can see all the wildlife in its natural habitat.
Paddles
– A paddle is an oar with a blade at one end that is used for propelling or steering a boat using sweeping movements. Paddles are held in each hand and moved alternately on either side of the boat to aid in propulsion.
PFD
– A Personal Flotation Device/Life Jacket is a device worn by an individual to keep afloat in water.
Paddle Leash
– A paddle leash attaches the paddle to the boat and makes it easier to keep track of the paddle. It also prevents you from losing it if you fall out of the boat.
Backrest
– A backrest keeps your body more comfortable while kayaking especially for an extended period or when fishing.
Paddle Float
– A paddle float is a device used to help keep a kayak or canoe upright or right side up when capsized.
Sea Anchor
– The sea anchor is a soft, large, buoyant sheet sent out from a boat to provide resistance against wind and waves. It also helps to hold the bow in the direction of the waves.
Storm Paddle
– A Storm paddle is a long, flat-bladed paddle designed for moving through swells and surf in rough weather. It is the combination of a traditional kayak paddle and a surf paddle.
Load Line
– A Load Line is an information label that tells you what position the kayak paddler must safely and legally operate the boat. That is to say, it is a visual reminder of correct body placement for ease of paddling and maximum stability.
Hull
– Certainly the main body of a boat.
Cockpit
– The cockpit is the area where you place your feet and legs when standing in a kayak.
Stem
– A Stem is an area where you place your paddle. That is to say, It’s usually located on the bow (front of the boat).
Bulkhead
– A bulkhead is a wall in a boat. It keeps water from going into one section of a kayak from another section. There is usually a bulkhead in the center in an open boat to separate the front from the back.
Bow
– Also called the bow hull or hatch. It’s the front of a kayak or canoe.
Stern
– The stern is also called the stern hatch or hull. It’s the back of a canoe or kayak.
Deck
– A Deck is any removable part of a boat that provides room for standing, sitting, and storage. Most kayaks and canoes have a rear deck for storage and pedals. Some as an option have a scooped front deck, which provides support for the thigh.
Strokes
– Paddling Strokes are the movements created with the hands when paddling. Most strokes start from the paddle dropping straight down toward the water (called a low-sweep or draw stroke) or starting with the paddle on the opposite side of your boat (also called a high-sweep or backstroke).
Rudders
– Rudders are used to steer and are small fins located at the back of a boat. Foot pedals or hand levers can operate them.
Skeg
– A skeg is a fin located at the bottom of the boat. It helps stabilize the boat and allows it to move straight through the water. It acts like a rudder to counterbalance the weight of spray skirts or backpacks.
Spray Skirt
– A Spray skirt is a plastic U-shaped cover or a neoprene that fits around the cockpit opening of a kayak and prevents water from entering. They can also provide leg support in some models.
Communicate
– While doing your kayak explore, first, communicate with other kayak paddlers that are on shared waterways and let them know where you will be paddling. Second, communicate with your family to let them know when you will be back, how long you plan on being gone, and most important what time they should expect you to be back. Be sure your watch is waterproof.
Inspect your kayak
– It is indeed essential to check the water level, weather forecast, road conditions, and any other potential hazards before you head out to the water. You will want to be ready when you start to kayak explore an area.
The different types of paddling strokes
– Draw stroke (also referred to as a low-sweep): This is a basic stroke designed to pull you forward through the water. It’s also a great way to rest because you can return the paddle to your kayak and rest on it. When doing this, the blade should be lifted slightly above the water as a result to glide smoothly through it.
A J stroke – a Forward and Back
– These are used for speed in flat water paddling or traveling upwind. For this stroke, the paddle goes in and out of the water quickly. Moreover, The stroke is one way to quickly get the balance and back into your stroke.
Scoop Stroke – sculling or sweep
– The scoop is a traditional and effective way to move forward in kayaks. Like the draw, it can also be use as a resting position and a great beginner’s stroke. Use kayak explore to see which stroke works best for you.
Eskimo Roll
– An Eskimo roll is rolling onto your back during rough water conditions. Once on your back, you can use the paddle to bring yourself right side up again. However, If you are in a skirt, this roll may be very easy because it is a controlled entry into the water. Therefore, Practice this in flat water situations first.
Indeed – Above all!
Pick a destination and be comfortable knowing you have everything you need. Most importantly, Re-study this article Kayak Explore for the locations, what you will need to take with you. What your gear is made up of and what strokes you can use to be more successful.